It Starts Small

¹³ For you have heard about my former way of life in Judaism: I intensely persecuted God’s church and tried to destroy it. ¹⁴ I advanced in Judaism beyond many contemporaries among my people, because I was extremely zealous for the traditions of my ancestors.

Galatians 1:13-14

my former way of life

Paul was a fervently devout individual prior to his profound conversion to Christ. He wasn’t an agnostic or an atheist, nor did he succumb to the temptations of materialism. Living by the shallow mantra of “eat, drink, and be merry” was not in his nature. This passage reveals that Paul was “extremely zealous for the traditions” of his Jewish ancestors, showcasing his deep commitment. He was exceptionally well educated and never lukewarm or apathetic in his beliefs. So, what powerful lessons does Paul’s extraordinary life impart to us?

• Religion can’t save you. If it couldn’t save Paul, it can’t save anyone! Paul poured his heart and soul into seeking morality and adhering to every religious tradition, yet it still fell short. (See Philippians 3:4-8.)
• Focus on Christ, not external traditions! In his fervor to uphold the customs of his upbringing, Paul persecuted those who were devoted to Christ. He tried to tear apart the very church that Christ was passionately building. Even today, many believers are so zealous about particular practices. They go as far as attacking those with different customs. It’s heartbreaking how some allow traditions and rituals to draw their gaze away from Christ! Many fixate on unnecessary traditions. Some focus on how we structure a church service. Others emphasize saying “in Jesus’ name, Amen.” Some concentrate on the rituals surrounding the Lord’s Supper. There are even those who stress the type of clothing worn to church.
• God can save anyone – If God could transform Paul, there’s hope for everyone! You might have a relative or friend who seems completely lost and even hostile toward the gospel. Don’t you dare give up or stop praying for them! God’s power to save is limitless!
• Whatever is worth doing is worth doing zealously! Paul was the embodiment of giving his all! He threw himself wholly into persecuting the church, only to later redirect that same fervor into building it up! Sure, his actions before were misguided. But Paul understood that if something is truly worth doing, it’s worth doing with complete dedication. After his conversion, he unleashed that same passion into advancing the church. Are you “extremely zealous” for the things of God?

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Cross References:

• Philippians 3:4-8

Questions to Ponder:

• What was Paul’s life like prior to conversion?
• Why does Paul want to tell the Galatians about his life as a Jew before conversion?
• What motivated Paul to persecute the church?
• What do we learn about Paul’s character in these verses?
• What was he zealous for? How is this similar to people who are religious? What should we be zealous for?

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